It made since that Michael Jackson’s planned “This Is It” 50-night, final tour was scheduled in London since even a showing in Las Vegas may not (though certainly would) sell out.

Jackson’s fame in American had long since declined and the singer was viewed cruelly as “Wacko Jacko” in a nation that often sadistically tears down formerly beloved icons.

But in the rest of the world, Jackson was not seen as weird and still loved by millions. His London concerts sold out in hours. And Jackson embraced his international fan base by moving to Bahrain (Middle East) for a short while.

In light of the divergent manner in which Jackson was treated and viewed in America and in the world it is not surprising this his concert film (based on tour rehearsals) “This Is It” was viewed by more foreigners in its opening week than Americans:

The movie sold $32.5 million over its first five days in the U.S. and Canada and $68.5 million in 97 other countries. It stands with “Angels and Demons” and “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” as one of a handful of films that more than doubled its domestic opening in foreign countries.

Japan, where Jackson is particularly huge, was the highest-grossing territory. “This Is It” collected $10.4 million there, making it the third-biggest opening of the year. Britain, where Jackson’s “This Is It” concert was scheduled to play, was No. 2, with $7.4 million, followed by Germany, France, Australia and China.

The movie still came in at #1 in the United States, but at $21 million it did less than expected. Several less prominent films earn more than $21 million during opening week.

Americans did mourn Jackson, but seemed to be reluctant to watch him in his final performance. While foreigners still hang on.

I have yet to see “This Is It.” Is it worth the admission ticket?